Auto Blast Operator

GATX•Hearne, TX

2d•$29 - $29

About The Position

The Auto Blast Operator operates automatic blast equipment to clean paint, dirt, scale, and other materials from railcars and associated parts using abrasive grit. The role also involves manually blasting and cleaning areas that remain after the automatic blast cycle, moving railcars, and carrying out minor equipment repairs and welding-related finishing work. The operator communicates with supervisors as needed, maintains a clean and orderly work area, and complies with established safety policies while supporting ongoing safety awareness.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as IO instructions, FM instructions, and work orders.
Ability to add, subtract, multiply, and divide two-digit numbers.
Ability to reason through and plan work details and procedures to obtain desired results.
Ability to follow verbal and written instructions.
Effective communication skills.
Basic computer knowledge.
Knowledge of railcar repairs.
Able to acquire and maintain blast certification(s) if not already qualified.
Able to acquire and maintain weld certification(s) if not already qualified.
Must be able to stoop for extended periods and routinely move from kneeling to standing positions.
Must be able to perform overhead work for extended periods.
Must be able to safely lift up to 51 pounds vertically and regularly lift up to 85 pounds from the ground surface.
Must be able to push or pull up to 140 pounds of force horizontally.
Must be able to climb ladders and work at elevated heights.
Must be able to work in extreme temperature environments.
Must be able to enter confined spaces physically and work in enclosed environments.

Nice To Haves

1–2 years of blasting experience.
1–2 years of welding experience.

Responsibilities

Remove trucks from railcars before they enter the blast booth and reinstall them after blasting is complete.
Operate automatic blasting equipment efficiently and safely; manually blast and clean areas that remain after the automatic cycle.
Remove debris and cover designated railcar parts and areas before blasting, then uncover them afterward.
Connect railcars to the rabbit system to pull them into the blast booth.
Move railcars using transfer tables, trackmobile, and winches.
Adjust equipment controls to regulate railcar travel speed through the blast booth and attain the required profile.
Replenish abrasive material in the feed hopper by pouring or shoveling it in.
Operate stationary blasting equipment to remove scale and other foreign substances from railcars and other materials.
Dismantle machine parts to remove foreign matter when equipment is stopped up.
Change hoses and hose fittings as needed and perform minor repairs to blast equipment.
Weld jacket patches after blasting and finish welds by removing slag and grinding when necessary.
Communicate with supervisors as needed.
Keep the work area clean and orderly.
Comply with established safety policies, support continuing safety awareness, and recommend health and safety policy or program improvements when possible.